Disney's lawsuit against governor DeSantis dismissed by US judge

A federal judge in Tallahassee, Florida, has dismissed Walt Disney's lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and members of a state board. The lawsuit alleged retaliation after the company criticized state limits on classroom discussion of sexuality.

Judge's ruling

U.S. District Judge Allen Winsor dismissed the case, stating that Disney could not sue them over constitutionally enacted state laws. Winsor emphasized that "Disney lacks standing to sue the Governor or the Secretary." He also noted that a plaintiff cannot challenge a facially constitutional statute on free speech grounds by claiming that the lawmakers who passed it acted with a constitutionally impermissible purpose.

Response and legal dispute

DeSantis's office and the Florida oversight board did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A Disney spokesperson expressed determination to press forward with the case, stressing the serious implications for the rule of law. The legal dispute stems from Disney's criticism of the "Don't say gay" law, which prohibits certain classroom discussions.

Retaliation allegations

Governor DeSantis, in response to Disney's opposition, repeatedly criticized the company, leading to the stripping of Disney's control over a special development district that had granted the company virtual autonomy around its theme parks since 1967. The newly formed Central Florida Tourism Oversight Board, appointed by DeSantis, voided contracts that Disney had pushed through before the prior board was replaced, prompting Disney to sue the governor and board members for alleged retaliation.

Further Allegations

The new board has asked a state court judge to declare prior agreements, which were favorable to Disney, improper and void. Additionally, the new board alleged that Disney provided millions of dollars' worth of tickets, discounted hotel stays, and other benefits to the previous board and its employees, which were deemed “akin to bribes of public officials.”